State Treaty on Gaming – GlüStV

Introduction

The State Treaty on Gambling is a treaty between the 16 federal states of the Federal Republic of Germany that regulates the legal framework for gambling in Germany. It aims to ensure orderly and controlled gambling, protect players and minimize the negative effects of gambling. In this article, we will examine in detail the various aspects of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling, its history, its provisions and its impact on the gambling industry in Germany.

History of the State Treaty on Gambling

The first Interstate Gambling Treaty came into force in 2008 and has been revised several times since then. The most recent version, the Interstate Gambling Treaty, was adopted in 2021 and brought significant changes, particularly in the area of online gambling.

Goals of the State Treaty on Gaming

The main objectives of the State Treaty on Gambling are:

1. Player protection: protecting players from fraud and addiction risks.
2. Channeling: steering the need for gambling into orderly channels.
3. Prevention of gambling addiction: Through education and targeted measures.
4. Ensuring the protection of minors and players: through strict age controls and protective measures.
5. Prevention of criminal activity: Such as money laundering related to gambling.

Main provisions of the State Treaty on Gaming

1. licenses and concessions

The treaty stipulates that gambling offers in Germany require a state license. This applies to both terrestrial and online gambling offers.

2. online gambling

The State Treaty on Gambling 2021 brought about significant changes in the area of online gambling. Online casinos and online poker are now permitted under certain conditions.

3. advertising restrictions

The treaty contains strict advertising restrictions for gambling offers, particularly on television and the Internet.

4. player protection measures

Gambling providers must implement extensive player protection measures, including deposit limits, loss limits, self-blocking and counseling services.

5. control and monitoring

The treaty provides for the establishment of supervisory authorities responsible for monitoring and controlling the gambling market.

Criticism and challenges

The State Treaty on Gambling was criticized by both the gambling industry and consumer protection groups. The industry expressed concerns about the strict regulation, while consumer advocates argued that the agreement was not sufficient to ensure effective player protection.

Impact on the gambling industry

The State Treaty on Gambling has significantly changed the gambling industry in Germany, in particular by opening up the market for online gambling. However, the strict regulations have also brought challenges for the industry, including the need to implement extensive compliance measures.

Conclusion

The Interstate Gambling Treaty is a complex set of regulations that defines the legal framework for gambling in Germany. While it aims to strengthen player protection and bring gambling into orderly channels, there are also criticisms and challenges associated with its implementation. It is crucial for providers of games of chance in Germany to thoroughly understand the provisions of the State Treaty on Games of Chance and to ensure that they take the necessary compliance measures.